Interactive Global Map

Abstract

Systems and methods are provided for generating an interactive map for displaying and analyzing a compressive intellectual property landscape within a given field. Based on content analysis of relevant patents and patent applications, this prior art map provides a systematic review of vast quantities of data, thereby allowing the user to discern critical technology and product trends, prior art references, and the strategies of both leading and emerging competitors. Each patent represented on the map can be analyzed within the context of the prior art landscape to uncover novel features, strong claims, and business and technology trends. This comprehensive view can provide a foundation for creating effective corporate strategies in-tune with the realities of the intellectual property terrain.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 12 / 587,666, filed Oct. 8, 2009, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 11 / 648,034, filed Dec. 29, 2006, now abandoned. The entire teachings of the above applications are incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]As the amount of prior art information continues to grow rapidly, the number of users who are new to the field of prior art searching also continues to grow. To assist users in identifying prior art, there are information gathering and retrieval tools and services. Users are likely to navigate patent and technical publication databases to search for relevant prior art. However, without assistance from a service that provides prior art search experts, a user is unlikely to find relevant prior art quickly and efficiently.[0003]Increasingly, prior art information gathering and retrieval services are faced with a market full of users who want to be able...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

Enables users to generate a comprehensive and accurate picture of the intellectual property landscape, facilitating effective corporate strategies and targeted research by providing a systematic review of vast data sets.

Problems solved by technology

Although there are prior art searching tools, they do not enable users to easily conduct effective and efficient due diligence, infringement studies, patentability searches, and freedom-to-operate studies.

Thus, the current prior art information gathering and retrieval schemes are unable to provide efficiently a user with such targeted information.

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